How to Pay in the Russian Federation during 2026

Foreign-issued bank cards are not accepted in Russia. As soon as you enter the country, the convenience you are used to is no longer available: you cannot simply pay for your coffee, order a taxi, or buy a museum ticket. You are forced to find a currency exchange office, keep cash on hand, and limit spontaneous purchases.

The answer to this problem is PayInRussia. This payment service allows visitors from other countries to pay for goods and services in Russia using their smartphones. You do not have to carry cash or have to visit a bank.

What can be paid for?

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• taxi rides and delivery services;
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• hotel stays and plane tickets;
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• cafés and restaurants;
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• stores and shopping malls;
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• admission to museums and various events;
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• purchases from Russian e-commerce stores and marketplaces.
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How can you use it?

Create your account before traveling while you are still in your home country. To complete the registration:

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• use your phone to scan your passport;
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• capture a selfie;
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• complete a brief identity check. Your personal details is detected automatically, and SMS verification through a Russian phone number is not required.
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Add funds to your balance using a card issued by a foreign bank or an eligible payment platform operating in a supported country prior to your arrival in Russia.

Use the service to pay for purchases:

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• Offline: scan the checkout QR code. An internet connection via Wi-Fi or a mobile network is necessary.
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• For online payments: pay in online stores and book hotels and tickets directly through the app.
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Why is the service so useful?

PayInRussia has been designed specifically for international tourists:

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• you do not have to become a resident of the Russian Federation;
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• you do not need to open an account at a Russian bank;
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• you can avoid visiting bank branches or currency exchange offices;
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• you can create an account and add funds before your trip;
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• you can pay conveniently using your smartphone;
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• the service is ideal for both short and extended trips.
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What do you need to do to begin? It only takes three straightforward steps:

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2. Download the app on your smartphone.
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4. Add money to your balance using an international bank card.
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6. Make payments for goods and services in Russia: open the app, tap the QR code icon, and scan the checkout QR code. The money will be withdrawn from your balance instantly.
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